1 Peter 1:8-12

Peter encourages believers by reminding us of the wonder of salvation and our hope of future joy, which was foretold by the prophets and secured through Christ’s death and resurrection. This is grace so marvelous that even angels long to gaze upon it!

Outline:

Be encouraged: your salvation does not depend on sight.

Be encouraged: your salvation brings glimpses of future joy, even now.

Be encouraged: salvation through Christ’s humiliation and exaltation is not a surprise.

Be encouraged: salvation was accomplished with you in mind.

Be encouraged: salvation is something even angels long to look into.

Sermon discussion questions:

1) 1 Peter 1:8a speaks of the saints' love of Christ. If you did a heart check right now on your love for Christ, what would you say is your depth of love for him?

2) Peter says we “rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory.” How have you experienced small glimpses of future joy in your life recently, even in difficulty?

3) As you read through the Old Testament, what are some of the connections you see to Christ? Why would Peter say that seeing those connections are an encouragement in your walk with the Lord? What does that practically mean for how you read the Bible?

4) This passage was meant to be an encouragement to the churches it was read to. In what ways is this passage an encouragement to you?